More than 100 boats across the various models were built between 1988 and the final production run in 1994. For its last two years, the boat was rebranded as the C&C 40 without significant changes. C&C offered three distinct versions: the cruising-oriented Plus, the racing-focused R, and the extra-light, performance-minded XL. Keel style, mast height, rigging, and interior layout varied among them.
Design and Construction
C&C Yachts built the 37/40 in Canada as a semi-custom boat, using aircraft-grade balsa core, Kevlar, fiberglass fabric, and vinylester resin. The hulls and decks followed the builder’s balsa-cored construction practice. C&C also installed matting beneath deck-hardware mountings to withstand compression loads. The deck is clean, smartly arranged, and designed to shed water.
The lead keel has a heavy fin and abundant ballast to keep the boat upright in a turbulent sea. It’s paired with a spade-type rudder. A reverse transom contributes to the boat’s racy appearance and incorporates a walk-through on some models.
Built from 1989 to 1994, the XL used the racing version’s lighter hull and deck plan. It was 40% lighter than the Plus series.
Rig and Handling
The C&C 37/40 was designed for offshore cruising and has been rated sound enough for bluewater sailing. Owners have reported that it can handle heavy weather, and the boat is appreciated for its handling across a wide range of sea conditions.
The R carries a deep-draft fin keel of slightly more than eight feet. The XL adopted the R’s deep keel and taller, triple-spreader mast to improve speed.
The traveler and winches are typically positioned so the helmsman can operate them, although the mainsheet and traveler arrangement varies by model. A bridgedeck helps keep water out of the cabin, but costs the cockpit some legroom.
Accommodations
The three versions differ sharply below. The Plus has a full cruising interior, an aft cockpit, and two staterooms. Its saloon is finished in exotic teak and mahogany, with comfortable seating, while the well-appointed galley includes a three-burner stove and freezer.
The R is more austere. Its Spartan interior, tall mast, large wheel, aluminum toerail, and reverse transom reflect a deliberate effort to shed furniture and appliances and reduce weight.
The XL combines a cruising interior with a lighter hull, taller mast, and deeper keel than the R. It blends the cruising interior with the R version’s lighter hull and deck plan. In both the Plus and XL, the galley has dual molded sinks, cupboard storage, an icebox, a freezer, and a three-burner propane stove. Both staterooms have queen-size berths, and the navigation station, aft to port, has enough room for electronics and a chart.
The general layout includes an L-shaped galley and a separate shower stall. The private V-berth stateroom has a vanity to starboard and a hanging locker to port. Freshwater capacity is 86 gallons, divided among three tanks, and the wastewater tank holds 44 gallons.
Known Issues
Some owners consider the cockpit too small. Six crew would be a squeeze, though the cozy space can seat that many snugly. The bridgedeck’s intrusion into legroom doesn’t help.
Deck crews sometimes find the aluminum toerail uncomfortable, despite its usefulness. Some critics also contend that these toerails are more likely to leak than a traditional rail.
Although C&C installed matting beneath the deck hardware, some owners say the backing plates were skimpy or never installed. A few have removed and rebedded hardware after suspecting leaks and possible balsa-core delamination.
Engines, Refit, and Ownership
Auxiliary power typically came from a Universal model 35 diesel. Later buyers were offered a 29-horsepower Yanmar 3YM30AE. The soundproofed engine compartment can be reached through side panels and the hinged companionway door.
After three decades, original electronics—including the chartplotter, depth gauge, autopilot, and wind instruments—are likely due for replacement. At 39 feet, the C&C sits on the threshold of being a big boat, which makes refits more expensive.
Most C&C owners take pride in maintaining their boats, so examples in good condition are common.
Verdict
The C&C 37/40 remains a thoughtfully engineered racer-cruiser with a semi-custom pedigree and a clear family resemblance to Ball’s earlier 37. The XL, in particular, answers the call for a light, fast cruiser without the Plus’s weight. Its build quality has also held up against cheaper production rivals.
The cockpit and toerail ergonomics are genuine compromises, while uncertainty about the backing plates warrants a careful survey.
Pros
- Semi-custom balsa, Kevlar, fiberglass, and vinylester construction with lead ballast
- XL is 40% lighter than the Plus and has the R’s deep keel and tall mast
- Bluewater-rated offshore cruising design
- Strong culture of owner upkeep
Cons
- Some owners consider the cockpit too small
- Aluminum toerail can be uncomfortable and may be prone to leaks
- Some owners report skimpy or missing backing plates beneath deck hardware
